Santa Cruz, CA – On the morning of Sunday, October 26, 2025, William Westerman, 65, of Scotts Valley, lost his life after his vehicle drove off the Santa Cruz Wharf and into the water, according to KSBW.

The Santa Cruz Fire Department reports that the crash took place around 9:44 AM near the Santa Cruz Wharf. Emergency crews from multiple agencies responded after receiving reports that a vehicle had entered the water.

Authorities said rescue personnel located the car about ten minutes later, overturned on its roof with the windows still intact. Westerman was found unconscious inside the submerged vehicle. He was extricated and transported to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment, but did not survive.

A dog that was also in the vehicle was rescued from the water and is expected to recover, officials said.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Santa Cruz Police Department and other responding agencies. Investigators are continuing to review the scene and collect evidence to determine how the vehicle left the roadway and entered the bay.

Single-Vehicle Fatalities

In some cases, investigations may reveal that even in a single-vehicle accident, nearby drivers or unsafe road features share some responsibility. California’s Comparative Negligence rule means that, even if those injured in accidents are found partially at fault,  the family may be able to file a Wrongful Death claim. This can provide compensation to help cover medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of income to support the family of the deceased.

Santa Cruz Fatal Car Accident Lawyer

If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Santa Cruz Fatal Car Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.